Jay Wood Overmyer

Jay Wood Overmyer, 82 years, of Monroe, Michigan, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2015 in his home with his wife and family at his side. Born February 27, 1933 in Jonesboro, Indiana, Jay was the son of the late Thelma Overmyer. Jay was a 1951 Graduate of Marion High School in Marion, IN. In 1957, Jay earned his bachelor’s of science degree and in 1960 he earned his master’s degree from Ball State University. Jay served his country honorably and proudly during the Korean War as a member of the United States Army. On April 20, 1987 Jay married his loving wife the former Donna J. Price in Northville, Michigan. Jay taught art for 38 years at Cantrick School and part time at Monroe County Community College until his retirement in 1995. He also owned and operated Overmyer Photography, where along with taking numerous family portraits and high school graduation photos, he photographed over 1,000 weddings. Jay was a long time member of the Monroe Golf and Country Club, where he enjoyed playing golf, and the Matt Urban American Legion Post #40. He was a member of, and held various leadership positions with, the MEA and served as a delegate to the National Convention. He was a former member of the Loyal Order of The Moose Lodge and the Loyal Order of Elks. He also enjoyed playing cards and held a black belt in Judo. Jay will be remembered as a kind and gentle man who enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Jay is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Donna Jean, three children: Robert Jay Overmyer of Ann Arbor, MI, LeeAnn (Jeff) Smith of Monroe, and DeeLynn (Scott) Rivinius of Stockton, CA, five step children: Loree R. Russeau of New York, NY, Janene M. Duffey of Denver, CO, Lisa D. Sancrainte of Monroe, Donna J. (Dr. Randall) Kaufman of San Diego, CA, and Robert V. (Sarah) Russeau of Gregory, MI, and twelve cherished grandchildren: Kyla, Dougie, Robert, Paige, Jake, Alec, Ian, Morgan, Jase, Marissa, Brock, and Maverick. Sadly, Jay was preceded in death by his mother. Visitation will be held on Friday from 2-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161 where funeral services celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at 11:00 AM. The VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors at the funeral home. In keeping with Jays wishes, cremation will follow. Memorial contributions are suggested to Gabby’s Ladder.

Jay Wood Overmyer

February 27, 1933 - September 29, 2015